Heaven a Better Country

If you were going to a chapter in the bible that talked about Faith, the first chapter that people would point you to is the book of Hebrews, chapter 11. It is known as the Faith chapter.

It tells of all the Heroes of the faith and how they put their trust in God and how they overcame all diversity. It tells of some of their accomplishments. These stories are why we call it the Faith chapter.

Today, I want to read to you one verse that is nestled right in the middle of this chapter. And I believe that it talks about something that all of us believers are looking for. That verse is verse 16.

Hebrews 11:16 NIV

16 Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.

This was true for the Saints of old that were faithful, but it is also for us believers as well.

Notice what it says. It says, “they were longing for a better country...” Then notice it clarifies - “a heavenly one.”

We can look all throughout scripture and read about Heaven and the many descriptions of heaven. Sometimes Heaven is described as a city—a kingdom—a temple—an inheritance. In the this text it is called a country.

Not just any country, but a better country. It is better, as it is a more exalted country. The most glorious part of the creation. The heaven of heavens. Full of the divine glory.

It is a more holy country. Not polluted. No sin within its happy territories.

It is a more healthful country. Sin, cause of disease; therefore, as there is no sin, there is no curse. No bodily, no mental, no spiritual afflictions there. Inhabitants never say that they are sick.

It is a more happy country. No more bitterness, no grief and pain. No more fear. No enemies. No toil or torment. No temptation and no more death.

It is a more abiding country. Not to be pilgrims but residents. We will not be visitors for a season, but we will be inhabitants forever. That inheritance is incorruptible, that crown fades not, that kingdom is an everlasting kingdom.

It is a better country, as it is the region of perfection and of consummate glory.

All believers desire this better country. They have secured a title to it. by faith in Jesus Christ they are accepted of God, are His children, and if children, then heirs as Romans 8 tells us. Names written in heaven.

Believers labor for this country, we pray for it. We seek grace to enable us to travel onwards until we appear perfect before the God of gods in Zion. It is something we talk about and we live in hope of its eternal enjoyment.